Daylight Saving Time Increases Risk of Car Accidents in Tampa

In the week after Daylight Saving Time, Tampa drivers must remain alert as roads become more dangerous

Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 7, which means we get to enjoy an extra hour of sleep. But before you get too excited about a little extra snooze time, you should know that Daylight Saving Time has a dark side.

When the clocks spring forward and fall back each year, it’s only by an hour, but research shows that it takes days to adjust to the new time difference. And during this adjustment period, there is a spike in car accidents, especially after we “fall back” and roadways become darker.

Why do car accidents spike after Daylight Saving Time?

In a 2021 study by a major insurance company, Florida ranked #6 on the list of worst states for Daylight Saving Time fatal crashes. Why? Florida has a lot rural roadways with limited visibility. Florida also has a high number of pedestrians and bicyclists. In fact, Tampa ranks as the 8^th deadliest city in the US for pedestrians, with pedestrian and bicyclist accidents rising in November and December when the weather becomes more pleasant, but it gets darker sooner.

How to lower your risk of an accident in Tampa

Daylight Saving Time poses a danger to everyone on the road, not just drivers. Bicyclists and pedestrians should also remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

Safety reminders for Tampa Bay drivers:

• ● Adhere to the speed limit
• ● Keep a safe distance between you and others on the road
• ● Always use your headlights during early morning and evening hours
• ● Ensure vehicle headlights and windows are clean (inside and out)
• ● Only use your high beams when you are the only vehicle on the road
• ● Yield to pedestrians

Safety reminders for Tampa Bay pedestrians and bicyclists:

• ● Avoid listening to music so you can hear nearby traffic
• ● Avoid roads without sidewalks or bicycle lanes
• ● Do not jaywalk
• ● Use street corners to enter the crosswalk rather than crossing on a diagonal
• ● Walk facing traffic if a road does not have a sidewalk
• ● Wear reflective clothing and use a flashlight

What to do if you have been injured in a car accident in Tampa Bay

Call Darrigo & Diaz immediately at 813-437-5523 

The steps you take after a car accident in Tampa Bay can have a major impact on the outcome of your insurance claim. If you have been injured in a car accident in Tampa Bay that was not your fault, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz immediately.

For over 20 years, Darrigo & Diaz has helped thousands of accident victims and their families throughout Tampa Bay. We understand how stressful an accident can be, and we are committed to taking the pressure off you. While you focus on your recovery, we will handle every detail of your injury claim. Our goal is to maximize the compensation you receive.  

Learn more about how Darrigo & Diaz can help you by requesting a FREE case review.

Call 813-437-5523 now to schedule your complimentary consultation with our experienced Tampa personal injury attorneys.